From the Principal

 Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

We congratulate our Class of 2024 who graduated from St Francis de Sales on Thursday 12 December. We had a packed hall with staff and families filled with pride and joy as we celebrated the completion of Primary school of our Year 6 students. A lovely Mass celebrated by Fr. Fabian was followed by the presentation of awards and Graduation certificates. The celebrations included a dance item by our Year 6 students and concluded with a delicious supper.

We pray for each of our Year 6 students on their graduation that their unique light radiates like a beacon. That they are hope amongst their friends, family and those they go to school with.  We ask that they continue blazing brightly, continue to soar, continue boldly stepping forward and remain open to all the opportunities that lie ahead.   

“Go make a difference”

For some parents this is their last year with us. We thank them for sharing the dream and are grateful for their generous support over the years. We especially acknowledged Brad Jackson for his above and beyond contribution as  our Grounds Maintenance Coordinator  and to Brooke Mole for her taking on the key role of chairperson of the School Advisory Council for the past four years.

Congratulations to our 2024 St Francis de Sales School Award winners:

HOLT Leadership Award - Gerwin and Isabel

This year we were fortunate to be able to nominate two students for the HOLT Academic/Leadership Awards. The Holt School Leadership Awards recognises and celebrates students who have demonstrated academic excellence and outstanding leadership in our school.

Gerwin has performed well across all curriculum areas during his time at SFS. He also exemplify leadership through actions rather than words. His calm and composed demeanor speaks volumes, inspiring those around him to follow his example of dedication, respect, and integrity. While he may not always be the loudest voice in the room, his presence is felt, and his contributions are invaluable. Gerwin engages with his peers with kindness and respect, always taking the time to listen to others, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued.

Isabelconsistently demonstrates a level of responsibility that goes above and beyond her years. One of her most admirable qualities is her supportive nature, especially towards younger students. Isabel is a positive role model who encourages and guides, offering her time and patience through her support, mentoring and acts of kindness. This student always tries to make a difference, whether it's in her learning by taking on feedback or volunteering her time to help wherever needed. However, what truly sets Isabel apart is her willingness to do these things with a cheerful smile and an unwavering commitment to excellence. 

Community Spirit and Leadership Award - Matilda

Matilda has been a fantastic leader and role model to her peers during her time at SFS. She has contributed actively to the school and wider community by volunteering for school activities and helping other students to be involved in school life. Matilda embodies the school values of respect, responsibility and kindness. She is always there to support and assist her peers, accepting others and being inclusive of all. 

The School Sports Victoria Academic/Sport Award - Georgia

Georgia has demonstrated excellence across all areas of their schooling. She has participated in a variety of sports and has shown good sportsmanship and fair play. In addition, Georgia has achieved excellent academic results. She is persistent, humble, always willing to assist others and always has a smile on her face. 

Academic Award - Christen

This year’s St Francis de Sales Academic Award is presented to Christen who has shown academic excellence in all curriculum areas and achieved excellent results not only this year, but during his time at SFS. He sets high expectations and goals for himself, giving his best not only in his learning but also to support others. Christen's passion and dedication for learning is to be commended but so is the way he has contributed to our school community. All Christen's teachers and peers speak highly of him and value not only the knowledge and skills he shares but also his humour, curiosity and bright and bubbly personality. 

Sports Award - Andison (Andi)

Andi has demonstrated exceptional sporting skills, not only in Physical Education lessons but also across the school, district, divisional, regional and national levels. Andi has demonstrated courage, determination and resilience. Over the past three years she has set goals and has relentlessly trained in all kinds of weather to achieve them. She has shown impressive results in a variety of sports, showing perseverance in chasing her dreams.  In 2022, Andi came 5th in 800m, 4th in 1500m, and 11th in Nationals Cross Country.  In 2023, she progressed further and came 2nd in 800m, 2nd in 1500m and 2nd at National Cross Country. In 2024, Andi was determined to achieve first and she did with a hat trick with a 1st in 800m and 1st in the 1500m and also a 1st at  National Cross Country. Andi also went on to be selected to  represent School Sport Victoria Under 12 Girls Team in Australian Football and Basketball. She was selected as the Vice Captain of the Basketball Team.  Andi is aiming high and her goal is to represent Australia at the Olympics in the 5km race or the 1500m track event or even play in the WNBL or AFLW. We will closely monitor Andi's  progress towards her ambitious goals in the years to come.

Arts Award - Layla 

Layla has demonstrated thought and care in her artistic work and always strive for a high standard. She has been a role model to others in SWAP, Art and Music classes and generously helps other students. Layla puts thought and care into her work and always has a positive attitude. Layla enthusiastically participated in our whole school Productions and Carols performances. her passion and dedication for learning in the Arts is to be commended.

Each student was given a trophy to keep as a memory along with a certificate.  Their names have also been engraved on our school trophy for each award.  The trophies are on display in the showcase in our foyer.

Rosary for the last Friday of the 2024 School Year

Today was our last rosary led by Eileen in LS3 for the 2024 school year. The room was packed full of students and many of them our Year 6 students who graduated last night. These children all gave up 15 minutes of their lunch time to say the rosary with Eileen. This occurs regularly each Friday. It is a very special and prayerful time as they reverently gather with Eileen to pray. 

Requisites for 2025

Junior Testing at the start of the School Year in 2025

Next year the students in Grade 1 and 2 will commence school on Friday 31st January and the Foundation students will commence on Monday 3 February. On Wednesday 29 January our Foundations students will be coming for a 45 minute appointment to complete Literacy testing and the Grade 1 students will be given an appointment to attend a testing interview on Thursday 30 January. Grade 2 students will be tested during week 1 and week 2 of Term 1.

Parents of Grade 1 will receive an email on Monday 16 December with an interview time. It is important that parents keep their appointment. Parents of Foundation students will get to make an appointment at Monday's orientation. 

Starting the year with testing completed ensure the learning for your child is personalised and learning opportunities meet their needs.

Senior students Year 3 to 6 will commence school on Wednesday 29th January.

School Crossing Supervision

On Tuesday 17 December schools will close at 1pm for the Christmas and Summer holidays. Please note as this is an early finish, there will be no School Crossing Supervisor at the crossing on Paterson Road. 

Christine White

Principal